From Mark E. Johns, MD, a medical oncologist/hematologist with OHC who specializes in colon cancer
August 6, 2018
Michele’s sister was diagnosed with colon cancer at age 33. Because her sister was so young, Michele’s doctor suggested she have a colonoscopy. The surgeon removed three pre-malignant tumors. Michele considers her sister and her doctors responsible for saving her life. Later, both sisters, as well as other family members, would receive genetic testing results confirming Lynch Syndrome, MSH2 variant. After a total radical hysterectomy (complete removal of the uterus, cervix, upper vagina, and parametrium) and removal of her ovaries, Michele is cancer free. Unfortunately, her sister’s cancer didn’t respond to any treatment and she passed away, leaving behind a legacy of determination to educate the public and health care providers about Lynch Syndrome.
At OHC, we are firm believers in cancer education as a driving force behind cancer prevention. Increased awareness of and knowledge about Lynch Syndrome may help more people like Michele, so here are common questions and answers about this condition.
What is Lynch syndrome?
Lynch syndrome is a genetic condition that can be passed from generation to generation in a family. It’s a type of inherited cancer syndrome associated with a genetic predisposition to different cancer types. This means people with Lynch syndrome have a higher risk of certain types of cancer.
What causes Lynch syndrome?
Mutations (alterations) in several genes involved in DNA mismatch repair that have been linked to Lynch syndrome. They include the genes of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and EPCAM. An alteration in any of these genes gives a person an increased lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer and other related cancers. Women also have an increased risk of developing endometrial and ovarian cancers.
How common is Lynch syndrome?
Approximately 3% to 5% of all cases of colorectal cancer are thought to be due to Lynch syndrome.
How do I test for it?
First, talk with your doctor to determine if he or she thinks you need to be tested. They may refer you to a genetic specialist for a consultation and a blood test.
If I test positive for Lynch Syndrome, does that automatically mean I will have cancer?
It means people who test positive have a significantly increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. There is also an increased risk for developing other cancers including breast, stomach, small bowel, pancreatic, prostate, liver, kidney and other cancers.
What should I do if I test positive?
The most important step after testing positive is to talk with your doctor. Depending on a number of factors, your doctor may recommend early or more frequent screenings, such as colonoscopies or PAP tests. Or they may recommend surgery. It’s also important to share this information with your family so they can decide if they want to be tested and then discuss their results with their doctor.
OHC offers a genetics program that provides counseling and testing for people who may be at risk for a hereditary cancer syndrome. The team helps at-risk individuals make informed decisions in accordance with their health care needs, preferences, and values. If you’d like to talk with someone about genetic testing or about colon and other cancers, call OHC at 1-888-649-4800 and or visit ohcare.com.
Michele’s complete story can be found at lynchcancers.com. Sources: OHC, the American Society of Clinical Oncology and Lynch Syndrome International. Photo by Mary Blackwey.
